CALVIN TOWNSHIP, Mich. – A tragic incident occurred near the state line on Monday night, resulting in a man losing his life. The Cass County Sheriff’s Office reported that an explosion took place at a petroleum pumping station, leading to the fatality.
The Penn Township Fire Department quickly responded to the explosion that occurred at the station, located on Bulhand Road near Calvin Hill Street in Calvin Township. The blast was so powerful that nearby residents heard it and felt their homes shake. Upon arrival, authorities discovered that two men had been working on a tank when it suddenly exploded, sparking a fire. Tragically, 71-year-old Charles Lawrence, a resident of Lakefort, lost his life in the incident. Another man, aged 38 and hailing from Osceola, Indiana, sustained minor injuries.
As investigators work to determine the cause of the explosion, the Michigan State Police Fire Marshal and the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy are conducting a thorough investigation. The authorities have not yet disclosed any specific details about what may have led to the explosion.
The pumping station is owned by Trak Oil of Port Huron, Michigan, according to the Cass County Sheriff’s Office. However, the company has not issued any statements or comments regarding the tragic incident. The community is left in shock and mourning as they grapple with the aftermath of this devastating explosion. It serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers associated with working at petroleum pumping stations.